What Is a Main Panel Upgrade, and Why Might You Need One?
A main panel upgrade consists of replacing your home’s electrical service panel, which functions as the core of your electrical system.
- Your electrical panel is outdated or damaged ir is operating on an older model
- You’re adding high-energy appliances like EV chargers, pool equipment, or a hot tub
- You’re remodeling or expanding your home
- You’re constantly tripping breakers or noticing flickering lights
This is not merely a cosmetic improvement; it’s a critical upgrade that enhances both the safety and functionality of your home.
The Real Cost: How Much Does a Main Panel Upgrade Cost?
Let’s start with some honest numbers:
- Standard upgrade: increasing capacity from 100 amps to 200 amps at the existing location.:
$3,000 – $5,000 (smaller companies)
$5,000 – $7,000 or more (larger companies) - Panel upgrade + relocation:
$7,000 to $9,000 or more, depending on distance and project complexity. - Upgrading to a 400 amp system:
$10,000 and up
Prices vary depending on the job—and the company. And here’s why:
Key Factors That Affect the Cost of Your Panel Upgrade
1. Location, Location, Location
This is the #1 price driver. If your panel is staying in the same spot, great—costs stay lower. But if we have to move the panel (even just a few feet), we need to:
- Re-route every single circuit
- Possibly turn the old panel into a sub-panel
- Install a brand-new main panel and reconnect everything
This isn’t just labor-intensive—it requires precision, planning, and permits. That’s why moving the panel can push the price higher quickly.
2. Overhead vs. Underground Service
If your existing power is overhead (lines coming in from poles), things are typically simpler. But if you want to switch to underground service, or already have one, that’s a whole different story:
- Trenching through your yard or driveway
- Running conduit underground
- Pulling in new service wires from the utility pole or transformer
That’s why underground jobs tend to start closer to $7,000 – $9,000, even when amperage doesn’t change.
3. Amperage Upgrade Size
- 100 amp to 200 amp: Standard upgrade. Straightforward, most common.
- 200 amp to 400 amp: That’s where it gets serious.
Upgrading to a 400-amp system involves more than simply installing a larger panel. It typically requires:
- Two 200-amp panels or a 400-amp meter combination
- A complete redesign of your home’s power Structure
- Installation of heavier gauge wiring, larger conduit, and increased coordination with the utility provider
That’s why you’re looking at $10,000+ for these projects.
4. The Company You Choose
Let’s be honest: larger companies (like Parker & Sons or Penguin Air) are charging $7,000 to $10,000 for a standard upgrade. Why? Overhead.
- Big sales teams
- Call centers
- Marketing budgets
- TV ads
They pass that overhead onto you.
Smaller and mid-sized companies like Vale City Electric can usually offer the same quality (if not better) at a better value. Why? We run lean. We don’t cut corners, but we don’t waste your money either.
5. “Discounted” Panels With Solar Installs
You’ve probably heard: “We can get you a panel upgrade for $3,000 if you do solar.”
That’s technically true. But only because you’re already spending $30,000+ on solar.
In those cases, the solar company is making so much profit on the system that they can afford to heavily discount the panel as a bundled deal. It’s not that panels cost less—it’s that the costs are absorbed in a larger sale.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Look at Price—Look at Value
Main panel upgrades aren’t cheap—and they shouldn’t be. This is about:
- Keeping your home safe
- Preparing for future tech and appliances
- Adding value to your property
- Protecting your investment
At Vale City Electric, we’re not the cheapest, but we’re fair. We walk you through every part of the process, deal with the city and utility companies, and give you a 2-year warranty on all parts and labor, backed by the Arizona ROC.
Need a Panel Upgrade? Let’s Talk.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your panel or just want honest answers from a contractor who actually cares, give us a call or fill out the form on our Contact Page.
We’ll shoot you straight and help you decide what’s best for your home.
Vale City Electric is a locally owned and operated electrical company proudly serving Arizona. We specialize in both commercial and residential electrical work, offering a wide range of services including:
commercial tenant improvements
With a commitment to safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, Vale City Electric is your trusted partner for all your electrical needs.
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